Because of the demise of small farming in America and the rise of large corporate farms, many country estates are left with empty barns. This has given birth to the conversion of old barns into modern living spaces, offices and even yoga studios. Most old barns were constructed using the standard A-frame method, with a square lower level and a partially separate upper story for storage. Many modern barns complete the flooring on this upper level in order to fully convert the barn into a two-level structure.
Companies that specialize in manufactured or customized new homes often have barn options in their catalog. Contemporary barns maintain the same A-frame construction of traditional barns and try to capture the open, natural light features that typify barns as well. Contemporary barns, however, come with features like sliding doors and built-in bookshelves that make them more geared toward living then anything else.
Modern farms also need utility barns, most of which are either constructed on-site by local crews or purchased premanufactured by companies that specialize in this. Premanufactured barns come in different styles and sizes, from three-level horse barns to single-room, windowless storage sheds. On-site constructed barns are made to serve a specific purpose, whether its for holding goats or storing grains.
The rise in contemporary barn living has spawned many different furnishings and details that are designed specifically for them. The large open floor plan has allowed for things like large claw-foot tubs in the bathrooms to make a comeback, as space and simplicity are important design factors. Large windows, often up in the nook of the A-frame, give contemporary barn houses an open-to-the-outdoors feel that often inspires seating areas facing outside.
